In 2012, approximately 2,180,000 hybrids were purchased, according to Statistic Brain. With the rising popularity of hybrid vehicles, and the relatively new nature of this technology to consumers, there are naturally a lot of myths being thrown around. If you have questions or concerns about hybrid car technologies, and especially electric batteries for cars, then read on to learn if the rumors are true.
Does the construction of hybrid batteries outweigh the car’s other environmental benefits?
One of the most significant appeals of hybrid cars is tied to the reduced fuel costs, and the reduced greenhouse gas emissions. However, soon after hybrid cars became available to the public, rumors started spreading that the manufacturing process for the batteries was more harmful to the environment than the creation of a traditional battery. The rumor went on to assert that even with better fuel economy, the initial release of fossil fuels, greenhouse gases, and sulfur oxide couldn’t be balanced out over time.
Fortunately, the U.S. Department of Energy put this myth to rest. Studies showed that although a hybrid vehicle had a greater environmental impact in the production stage, over the lifetime of the vehicle that impact was cancelled out by requiring far less energy to run, and having fewer harmful emissions. The Environmental Protection Agency has even certified the 2000 Insight as the most fuel efficient vehicle yet created in the United States, rating 61 MPG on the highway.
Do the electric batteries for cars make hybrids less powerful than traditional vehicles?
It was a common misconception among car owners that hybrid vehicles, having different engines and a greater reliance on electricity, couldn’t possibly keep up with traditional vehicles in terms of horsepower. However, comparisons of the Lexus Rx400h to the Toyota Highlander Hybrid reveal systems that are equal in horsepower, and newer Lexus hybrids house more than 300 horsepower. It is worth noting that over a long period of time, a Honda hybrid battery, or any make of battery, can start to lose its efficiency. In 2012, about 209,216 Honda Civic hybrids were sold, and those Honda hybrid batteries have proven to be better than those in previous models, but hybrid owners still need to be aware that batteries, even in hybrid cars, don’t last forever.
Will hybrid batteries blow up if I get into an accident?
The electric batteries for cars use a regenerative charging technology that saves some of the energy that would usually be lost when braking, putting it back into the battery, and thereby increasing fuel and energy efficiency. However, hybrid vehicles do require very large and powerful batteries in order to confer those benefits. The size and power of these batteries can be dangerous if not properly contained. The Auto Alliance has released statements that confirm the extra safety measures that are in place to keep these batteries from being a danger during an accident. Not only are the batteries constantly being monitored by the car computer, but they are insulated, isolated, and protected. There are also automatic disabling features that kick in when the airbags are deployed, or if the vehicle comes to a sudden stop.
If you are considering purchasing a hybrid, then it is worth knowing what the risks and disadvantages are. However, these three myths should not be considered among them. Experts have determined that hybrid car batteries are truly no less powerful or safe than traditional vehicles, and are far more efficient.
